In English grammar, the placement of words and phrases can significantly affect the meaning and tone of a sentence. One common point of confusion arises when we encounter phrases like ‘in general,’ which often appear in positions that seem unusual to non-native speakers. In this article, we will break down why the phrase ‘in general’ appears in a certain position and how it functions in sentences like ‘This study brutally reveals our attitude toward poverty in general.’
1. The Function of ‘In General’
‘In general’ is a phrase used to indicate that something applies broadly or in most cases, without going into specific details. In the sentence ‘This study brutally reveals our attitude toward poverty in general,’ the phrase modifies the entire idea of the study’s findings regarding poverty. The phrase ‘in general’ provides the broader context of the findings, indicating that the study is addressing a general, rather than a specific, attitude toward poverty.
2. Why ‘In General’ Appears at the End of the Sentence
The phrase ‘in general’ typically appears at the end of the sentence because it functions as a qualifier for the entire statement. Its position here serves to highlight that the study’s revelation about attitudes toward poverty is not about individual cases but rather about a general tendency or widespread attitude. By placing ‘in general’ at the end, the sentence emphasizes that the statement is applicable broadly, without focusing on exceptions or specific details.
3. Modifying the Entire Sentence
In this case, ‘in general’ modifies the entire statement rather than a specific word or phrase within the sentence. This positioning is common in English when a phrase or adverbial modifier applies to the entire sentence or clause. For example, when you say ‘The weather is warm in general,’ the phrase ‘in general’ refers to the overall idea of warmth, not just a specific temperature at one moment. Similarly, in the original sentence, ‘in general’ highlights the general nature of the attitude revealed by the study.
4. The Importance of Context in Word Placement
Word order in English can alter the nuance and clarity of a sentence. The placement of ‘in general’ at the end in this case is not arbitrary. It provides a context that signals the sentence’s focus on broader, generalized information rather than specific examples or details. Understanding how such adverbial phrases function is essential for crafting clear and effective sentences in English.
Conclusion
The placement of ‘in general’ in a sentence serves an important grammatical function, helping to clarify that the statement refers to a general idea rather than specific details. By positioning it at the end, English speakers can effectively communicate the broadness of the concept being discussed, whether it’s related to attitudes, behaviors, or any other subject. Understanding this can greatly improve sentence construction and overall communication.
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